Tracing the evolution of aromatic molecules from interstellar space to planetary systems

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The path of cosmic carbon, from the stellar forges to its chemical transformation in the vastness of space and delivery to our solar system, is critical to understand the origin of life on Earth. Much of the carbon in space is believed to exist in the form of large, elegant molecular structures called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). PAHs have been proposed to serve as molecular scaffold upon which life arose. My overarching research program focuses on probing the molecular underpinnings of astrochemistry using laboratory experiments. In the long term, my lab will aim to understand the life cycle of interstellar carbon, with a short term focus on measuring formation and destruction routes of small aromatic molecules and PAHs in space. My long-term vision is to establish a team of leading experts in astrochemistry who can support new and innovative astronomical observing campaigns, as well as solve fundamental scientific questions. This laboratory will be the first of its kind in Canada and will open up a new research field linking Canadian expertise in astronomy and chemistry. This research program will bridge discipline gaps to help answer questions about the role of PAHs in the evolution of cosmic carbon. In the short term, my team will (1) investigate formation routes for simple aromatic and heterocyclic rings in space; (2) determine how these rings form the simplest PAHs; and (3) quantify the survival of these molecules in interstellar space by studying likely destruction pathways. These objectives will contribute to three long term goals to understand whether: (A) even the simplest aromatic molecules can form in space and why we have yet to observe heterocycles outside of our solar system; (B) PAHs can form in space by so called "bottom-up mechanisms" from smaller hydrocarbons, or whether they must form by "top-down mechanisms" involving destruction of larger species; and (C) small PAHs can survive in space all the way to the formation of new solar systems. Overall, this program will train 4 PhDs, 2 MScs and 6 undergraduates. This program is designed to provide exceptional training to prepare HQP for their individual career aspirations and to build knowledge of EDI practices. My HQP will develop broad technical knowledge and creative problem solving skills. Our research will involve collaborating in teams, analyzing large datasets, designing and building scientific instruments, using cutting edge telescopes to explore the universe, performing computer simulations, and interpreting the results. HQP will be attracted by intrinsic interest and may not realize that they are developing skills that are transferable to a range of Canadian workforces. Importantly, this research program touches on fundamental questions, such as: how did we get here? and, are we alone? Such questions capture the imagination; bringing people together by a shared sense of wonder about our universe and our place within it.